Import & Export Operations Coordinator

About Cypher Urban Roastery

Founded in Dubai in 2016, Cypher Urban Roastery is a specialty coffee company committed to sourcing, roasting, and delivering premium coffee products both within the UAE and to international markets. The company emphasizes quality, transparency, consistency, and ethical sourcing, collaborating closely with coffee producers, wholesale partners, and experts to provide outstanding specialty coffee experiences.

Role Overview

We are seeking a proactive and meticulous Import & Export Operations Officer to join our Operations team. This role involves managing the comprehensive logistics of international shipments, ensuring timely and compliant imports and exports according to UAE and global trade standards. The successful candidate will liaise with suppliers, freight forwarders, customs agents, shipping companies, regulatory authorities, customers, and internal teams to facilitate smooth and accurate shipment processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage export processes from order confirmation through to final delivery, ensuring all necessary documentation such as Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Bills of Lading, Certificates of Origin, Phytosanitary and Health Certificates, Certificates of Conformity, and insurance documents are accurately prepared and verified.
• Coordinate with customers, logistics partners, customs brokers, and shipping lines to arrange and monitor freight bookings and shipment progress, providing timely updates to stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with destination country regulations, handle product registrations with Dubai Municipality and other authorities, arrange laboratory testing, and maintain regulatory records.
• Facilitate dispatch of pre-shipment samples and collaborate with suppliers on packaging, labeling, and shipping instructions to avoid shipment delays.
• Oversee import operations including coordinating the receipt of green coffee beans, packaging materials, and other supplies; verifying import documents for compliance with UAE Customs and regulations; and managing customs clearance and delivery to warehouse.
• Work closely with Sales, Procurement, Production, Warehouse, Finance, and Quality Assurance departments to support operational needs and uphold company policies including food safety and trade compliance.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve operational challenges ensuring continuous supply chain efficiency while continuously seeking process improvements.

Qualifications and Experience

• At least 2 to 3 years' experience in import/export operations, logistics, freight forwarding, or international trade.
• Experience in food & beverage, coffee, FMCG, or commodity trading sectors is strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with UAE Customs procedures and international shipping documentation.
• A diploma or bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, International Trade, or related fields is advantageous.

Skills and Competencies

• In-depth understanding of import/export documentation and international shipping protocols.
• Knowledge of Incoterms, customs regulations, and international trade compliance requirements.
• Strong organizational, planning, and time management abilities.
• Exceptional attention to detail with capability to handle multiple shipments concurrently.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to coordinate with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, notably Excel and Outlook.
• Experience with ERP or logistics management software is a plus.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills with a proactive mindset.

Desired Attributes

• Highly organized and detail-focused individual.
• Proactive with strong follow-up discipline.
• Self-reliant yet able to collaborate effectively within teams.
• Customer-oriented with dedication to superior service delivery.
• Adaptable and capable of managing shifting priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Committed to precision, compliance, and continual process enhancements.

Why Join Us?

Cypher Urban Roastery offers an opportunity to be part of a growing global specialty coffee company. The role provides diverse exposure to international trade, logistics, regulatory compliance, and supply chain operations while engaging with passionate professionals dedicated to quality and innovation. If you are looking for career growth in international logistics within a mission-driven company, this is an excellent opportunity to contribute and advance your expertise.